Review: Loca Linda Wines of Argentina

Loca Linda is a new brand of Argentine wines that come to us from semi-professional nomad/wine guru Brian Smith. The focus with these wines is on two unassuming bottles that each hold a full liter (“uno liter”) of wine — yet contain just 30 grams of additional glass vs. the typical 750ml bottle.

The wines are also, for the most part, surprisingly outstanding.

2011 Loca Linda Torrontes La Rioja Argentina – Dangerously easy to drink. Lots of perfume and flowers on the nose. Lovely apple and citrus notes on the body, particularly grapefruit. Crisp acidity, perfect balance. Like a grown-up version of a California Sauvignon Blanc. Mind the tartrates, which really become evident on the second day with a bottle. A- / $18 (one liter)

2010 Loca Linda Malbec Mendoza Argentina – Another surprisingly well-made, easy drinking wine. This Malbec is overflowing with fruit, a big blackberry and fresh plum character with undertones of coffee and just a bit of leather. Lots to like here — fruity but not overdone — especially at this price. A-/ $18 (one liter)

2011 Loca Linda Bluebird Snowboards Malbec Lujan de Cuyo Argentina – Made in collaboration with Blue Bird Snowboard Team, this skater-friendly wine offers similar characteristics to the Loca Linda Mendoze bottling, perhaps with a more saccharine body and a less full finish. Ultimately somewhat less satisfying than the big bottle. B / $14 (750ml)